Mushroom research

Our research is directed on understanding the genetics of edible mushrooms in order to improve breeding efficiency. The focus is on button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) and oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus). For this we also explore the biological variation within our large collection of varieties (>5000 strains representing 125 species) by assessing genetic relatedness within species and quantifying several phenotypic characteristics.

We also explore the utilisation of fungi for selective degradation of lignin in organic (waste) materials. Research done so far has shown that a number of species degrade substantial portions of lignin while hardly consuming cellulose. These fungi can thus be used to make cellulose bioavailable in low value organic waste, upgrading it into animal feed or feedstock for the production of bioenergy.